Glacier Point is a viewpoint in California's gorgeous Yosemite National Park. It is located on the south wall of Yosemite Valley at an elevation of 7,214 ft. Millions of visitors every year are captivated by the commanding views this viewpoint has to offer.
Glacier Point - Yosemite National Park, California
Get to the viewpoint by taking Glacier Point Road off of Hwy-41, and drive 16 miles to the end. Note that this road is closed during winter, so if you plan to go, summer is the time. Check for accurate information on road closures on the official national park website.
Yosemite park road
There are other attractions on this drive definitely worth stopping - Washburn Point is a lookout with similar views, Sentinel Dome is a 2 mile hike and offers 360 degree views of the park, Summit and Mono meadows you may want to check out, and many hiking trails.
Check out our post on Hiking the Sentinel Dome.
Sentinel Dome / Trail to Mono Meadows
At the end of Glacier Point Rd. you will find a large parking lot. Don't be surprised if you end up circling around the lot for awhile, the place gets very crowded very quickly. Hike the 0.5 mile loop trail to get to the overlook and other viewpoints on the trail.
Trail
Once you are at the viewpoint, you will be witnessing an unmatched view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and the High Sierras. You will be standing 3,200 ft above the valley floor looking down at Half Dome Village.
Half Dome view at Glacier Point
Stop at different points along the trail and catch a view of Vernal and Nevada Falls, although they are better from Washburn Point. If you are an avid hiker, there are 3 trails of varied distances and difficulties starting from Glacier Point.
Home Dome Village from the top / From a different viewpoint
If you are interested in Yosemite's geological past, check out the exhibits at Glacier Point's own little museum "The Geology Hut", and learn how glaciers shaped the spectacular landscape we see today.
Geology Hut
Sunsets at Glacier Point are also very popular among visitors. On clear nights, especially during summer, Glacier Point offers magical star gazing experience as well. If you arrive before sunset you can witness beautiful glow on the mountains as the sun goes down, wait up an hour or so and witness a star studded sky.
Sunset at Glacier Point
Gear used: Fuji X-T20 with 18-55mm lens.